Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet:

1 lb Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option.
1 Onion, chopped: Adds a savory base to the dish.
½ Red Bell Pepper, chopped: Adds sweetness and color.
½ Green Bell Pepper, chopped: Provides a slightly bitter note and crunch.
½ Yellow Bell Pepper, chopped: Adds sweetness and a milder flavor.
2 tsp Minced Garlic: Enhances the savory profile.
½ tsp Dried Oregano: Adds earthy notes.
½ tsp Dried Basil: Brings a hint of freshness.
Salt and Pepper, to taste: Adjust according to your preference.
1 can (14.5 oz) Diced Tomatoes: Provides a juicy base for the dish.
2 cups Beef Broth: Adds depth of flavor.
⅔ cup Rice: Use long-grain rice for best results.
1 ½ cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully over the dish.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ground Beef

Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Sauté Vegetables

Add Vegetables: Add chopped onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Season and Simmer

Season the Dish: Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Incorporate Rice: Stir in the rice, ensuring it’s well combined with the rest of the ingredients in the skillet. Cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

4. Melt Cheese and Serve

Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.

5. Serve Hot

Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of this Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet!

Cook’s Notes

Choosing Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) for a healthier option. You can also use ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
Rice Variations: Experiment with different types of rice such as jasmine rice or brown rice for a nuttier flavor and chewier texture.

Variations

Tex-Mex Twist

Add Beans and Spice: Incorporate a can of black beans and a diced jalapeño for a spicier Tex-Mex version. Serve with tortilla chips or warmed tortillas.

Italian-Inspired

Change the Seasoning: Use Italian seasoning instead of oregano and basil. Top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving for an Italian flair.

Keto and Low Carb Versions

Low Carb

Substitute Rice: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Ensure all other ingredients are low-carb friendly.

Keto

High-Fat Ingredients: Use higher-fat ground beef, full-fat cheese, and check the beef broth for added sugars or carbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the Ground Beef and Peppers Skillet up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stove or in the oven before serving.

Q: What are some suitable side dishes to serve with this recipe?

A: This skillet meal pairs well with steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Q: How can I adjust the spiciness of this dish?

A: Increase the amount of black pepper or add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier kick. You can also include more jalapeños or hot sauce to suit your taste.